Casino 150th Celebrations

Casino 150th Celebrations

I was pleased to attend Saturday's celebrations and as the Member of Parliament representing Casino I am delighted to congratulate Charlie Cox, the organising committee, people of Casino and the Richmond Valley Council community on the wonderful festivities. Cassino as it was originally known and now Casino has been a town built on agriculture, timber, industries and businesses that have continually contributed to the development, growth and recognition of Casino throughout the world as an exporter of quality products produced in the region. Being a son and a lifetime resident of Casino I personally appreciate the community who always support any promotion, initiative or needs of the town with enthusiasm, generosity and care which reflects the communities pride and commitment to events such as Casino Beef Week, Primex, the annual Show, Racing and fundraisers confirming Casino to be the friendly, vibrant district which is the envy of others throughout eastern Australia. Whilst current industries have provided a stable basis to our community we are now witnessing other industries and business emerge to assure that Casino will continue to thrive and maintain its importance as the industry hub of the Northern Rivers Region.

Kyogle High 50th Anniversary

I had a great afternoon and enjoyed the opportunity of being with the community of Kyogle High to celebrate its 50 years in public education. I was honoured to take part in the official proceedings and unveil the rededication plaque.

WorkCover Tractor Power Take-Off Rebate Scheme

The Power Take-Off (PTO) safety program aims to reduce the likelihood of injury or death by unguarded PTO's on farms. The program provides 5,000 dollar-for-dollar rebate subsidies, up to the value of $200, to NSW farmers who purchase PTO guarding for their tractors and equipment. The rebate is available from 25 August for a maximum period of two years or until funds are expended. Application forms are available from my office or www.workcover.nsw.gov.au.

NSW Remembers Certificates

On Monday 15 August 2005 Australians celebrated and commemorated the 60th Anniversary of Victory in the Pacific and the end of World War II. This anniversary was such an enormously important event in the life of our community that the State Government has made a commitment to issue a special commemorative certificate to every World War II veteran in NSW. An application form, with service particulars and contact details needs to be completed so please contact my office to arrange.

Regional Sports Facilities Program

This program provides funds to develop and enhance the network of major sporting and recreational facilities that meets the needs of the general community and may incorporate uses for talented and elite athletes. Applications are now open until 30 November and can be obtained from my office for the Department of Sport & Recreation website www.dsr.nsw.gov.au. Applicants are encouraged to contact the Department's Manager of Grants on 9006 3776 to discuss their project prior to making application to ensure it is eligible for consideration.

Premier's Christmas Gala Concert 2005

This concert is held on Monday 5 December 2005 at the Sydney Entertainment Centre, with two sessions, one at 10.30am and another at 2.30pm. Members of Parliament are provided ten double passes to distribute amongst seniors in our electorate. Anyone interested in these tickets should contact my office as soon as possible.

Fair Trading Laws Relating to Telemarketing

During 2003/04 both New South Wales and Victoria amended its Fair Trading Acts to introduce provisions regulating the use of telephone marketing to sell goods and services. Each set of amendments was made in response to the recommendations of a review committee report and although the policy framework underpinning the laws is based on similar principles, specific statutory requirements differ.
Telemarketing has not been regulated by the States before and during the consultation period industry stakeholders drew attention to the cross-border nature of the industry and the difficulty it faced in complying with inconsistent legislation. A joint NSW/Victoria working party drafted the consultation paper, Fair Trading Laws Relating to Telemarketing in New South Wales and Victoria - Options for Harmonisation. The closing date for submissions is Friday 14 October 2005. Copies of the Consultation Paper can be obtained from my office or www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au

Pay-roll Tax Amendment (Supporting Jobs and Small Business) Bill 2005

The Nationals/Liberal Coalition gave notice last week of the Pay-roll Tax Amendment (Supporting Jobs and Small Business) Bill 2005, which will exempt around 4500 small businesses from payroll tax, and give 22,000 other businesses relief of up to $15,000 each on their payroll tax bills. NSW remains the highest taxed state under Labor, Premier Iemma has failed to rule out new or increased taxes, with jobs and investment leaving NSW for lower taxing states like Queensland and Victoria. Raising the pay-roll tax threshold to match Queensland's $850,000 will deliver boost to business in 2007/08 providing an incentive for our businesses to be competitive against Queensland counterparts.